Chinese website autohome.com.cn has posted photos purportedly of the new Audi A4 B9, which is set to debut just ahead of Frankfurt later this year. Renderings and spyshots aside, the new photos offer a closer look at the car’s headlamp design (a rather aggressive looking thing) as well as an overview of the interior, sans steering wheel.

The layout of the third-gen’s interior has plenty of new Q7 overtones, including a similarly-shaped gearshift lever, and is certainly a significant jump over that found on the current A4 B8.

The new A4 will sit on a modified version of the MLB platform. Dubbed the MLB evo, it was first seen underpinning the second-gen Q7. The platform employs a combination of ultra high-strength steel, aluminium and composites, and will potentially allow the A4 to shed around 100 kg in terms of weight.

Front-wheel drive and quattro all-wheel drive options are set to feature, as will the automaker’s range of forced induction TDI diesel and TFSI petrol engines, along with six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions.

So why the sudden change? Because customers hardly bought or even expressed interest in the V8 and manual versions of the original R8, that’s why. Heinz Hollerweger, head of Audi’s quattro GmbH told Automobilemag the dire truth at the 2015 Geneva motor show. “The take up rate was almost nil,” he said.

Apparently, the V10 variant of the first-gen R8 outsold the V8 model by such a large margin – exceeding Audi’s own initial expectations – to a point where they now “have no interest in a V8.” As for the dual-clutch-only decision, Hollerweger told reporters to “look at lap times,” where steering paddles would clearly be superior to a three-pedal setup.

It all makes sense, once you really think about it. But, that still doesn’t mean that we have to agree with this direction. What do you think of this matter?

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/03/13/audi-r8-low-demand-killed-v8-and-manual-options/feed/132016 Audi A4 B9 confirmed for 2015 Frankfurt showhttp://paultan.org/2015/03/13/2016-audi-a4-b9-confirmed-for-frankfurt-show/
http://paultan.org/2015/03/13/2016-audi-a4-b9-confirmed-for-frankfurt-show/#commentsFri, 13 Mar 2015 01:31:49 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=317693It’s confirmed, the next-generation Audi A4 will make its public world debut at this year’s Frankfurt motor show in September. The “B9″ A4 will be presented to the press at the VW Group’s traditional pre-IAA […]

It’s confirmed, the next-generation Audi A4 will make its public world debut at this year’s Frankfurt motor show in September. The “B9″ A4 will be presented to the press at the VW Group’s traditional pre-IAA 2015 event in the German city.

“You’ll be happy to see it, at least in Frankfurt, but we’ll make a pre-presentation,” Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, member of the Board of Management at Audi AG told Indian Autos Blog in Geneva. With a September 2015 debut, we can expect European sales to start at the end of the year, before the C-Class/3 Series rival ventures out to the rest of the world in 2016.

We’ve so far seen spyshots of the B9 A4 on test, as well as renderings of the compact premium exec. From there, we’re expecting a sharper looking car with a significantly more angular front end and single-frame grille, as seen on the new Audi Q7 SUV and R8 sports car. It will still be easily recognisable as an A4 and Audi though – evolution, not revolution.

The new A4 will sit on a modified MLB platform from the VW Group dubbed the MLB evo. The platform employs a combination of ultra high-strength steel, aluminium and composites, potentially allowing the A4 to undercut its rivals in terms of weight. Savings of 100 kg are being talked about.

Audi’s efficient range of forced induction TDI diesel and TFSI petrol engines will feature, mated to a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. As for driven wheels, it’s either FWD or quattro AWD.

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/03/13/2016-audi-a4-b9-confirmed-for-frankfurt-show/feed/19All-electric Audi Q6 teased, flagship Q8 SUV confirmedhttp://paultan.org/2015/03/12/audi-q6-teased-q8-confirmed/
http://paultan.org/2015/03/12/audi-q6-teased-q8-confirmed/#commentsThu, 12 Mar 2015 04:53:11 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=317598Audi is set to spawn several new models in the coming years as part of its €24 billion investment plan which would see a total of 60 different vehicles being introduced by the end of […]

Audi is set to spawn several new models in the coming years as part of its €24 billion investment plan which would see a total of 60 different vehicles being introduced by the end of this decade – and the onslaught has already begun. Teased at its annual press conference is the upcoming Audi Q6, an all-electric crossover that will sit on the same MLB platform as the new Audi Q7.

According to Autocar UK, Audi chairman, Rupert Stadler, has pegged the Audi Q6 to arrive in showrooms, by the earliest, in 2018. As for its (electric) heart, the Q6 is expected to feature a battery pack that’s supposed to pack more juice than the 90 kWh output touted by the new Audi R8 e-tron – close to 100 kWh is likely.

As enticing as its shapely, Audi prologue-inspired looks are, the bluffer Q6 SUV is expected to have an operational range that lags behind the R8 e-tron with a figure of 293 km being mentioned – still a realistically useful figure. Further technical details remain scarce but the twin electric motor setup will, in true quattro fashion, send power to all four corners of the Audi Q6.

When it goes on sale, the Q6 will compete against the likes of the BMW X6, Range Rover Sport, Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe and the Tesla Model X – the latter due to arrive some time soon this year, apparently. “It will be something new, following designs established on the Prologue concept,” comments Ulrich Hackenberg, chief of Audi’s R&D department. “The Q7 will be a car for seven people, the Q6 will be more coupe-like.”

Meanwhile, Audi has also confirmed the existence of the Audi Q8 flagship SUV, adding that the crossover is “progressing through a development programme that aims to have it on sale within the next three years.” The Audi Q8 is aimed squarely at markets such as China, the Middle East and North America, where demand for large SUVs continue to soar.

The flagship SUV is set to arrive with a turbo’ed 3.0 litre petrol V6 on entry-level models and top out with the addition of a twin-turbo 4.0 litre V8 on the RS Q8 variant. In between, a range of V6 and V8 diesel and petrol mills will be offered alongside a plug-in hybrid and an all-electric version. Indicative pricing begins at £50,000 (RM279,724), which stretches to £90,000 (RM503,503).

It’s both lighter and safer than before. Audi says the safety aspects of the new GT3 racer already surpasses the tighter requirements that will come into effect in 2016. The crash structures, both front and rear, have been improved, and there’s now a rescue opening in the roof as used in DTM cars – a GT3 first.

The additions above would have increased weight, but Audi has managed to make the new R8 LMS slightly lighter (from 1,250 to 1,225 kg). Torsional stiffness of the stressed frame is up by a significant 39% too.

As before, the 585 hp 5.2 litre V10 engine is assembled in the same line as the production units. Its scheduled rebuild intervals of 20,000 km sets the standard in racing, as Audi keeps mentioning. While the engine has been carried over largely unchanged, the lighter six-speed sequential transmission is a completely new development.

Aerodynamically, the new Audi R8 LMS features a fully-lined underfloor and a conceptually integrated rear diffuser. The more efficient aero has allowed the use of a smaller rear wing without affecting drag.

The new car has big shoes to fill, as its predecessor was quite a beast on track. The first-generation Audi R8 LMS collected 26 GT3 Championship wins between 2009 and 2014, plus 23 titles in other classifications and seven class victories in 24-hour races. Can this new one be as successful?

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/03/04/new-audi-r8-lms-is-lighter-ready-for-2016-gt3-regs/feed/2Audi Q7 e-tron 3.0 TDI quattro debuts in Geneva – first six-cylinder diesel plug-in hybrid with all-wheel drivehttp://paultan.org/2015/03/03/audi-q7-e-tron-3-0-tdi-quattro-geneva/
http://paultan.org/2015/03/03/audi-q7-e-tron-3-0-tdi-quattro-geneva/#commentsTue, 03 Mar 2015 06:09:54 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=315083The Audi Q7 e-tron 3.0 TDI quattro has made its world debut at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. Set to go on sale in the first quarter of next year, the eco-friendly SUV is billed […]

Looks wise, the Audi Q7 e-tron 3.0 TDI quattro is more or less the same story except for the inclusion of a revised version of the Singleframe front grille, air intakes, 19-inch five-spoke turbine-esque alloy wheels and a streamlined rear diffuser.

Under the skin is where things get a little more interesting. A 3.0 litre, six-cylinder TDI engine is paired to a disc-shaped electric motor – which is juiced up by a liquid-cooled 17.3 kWh lithium-ion battery – and together they generate a combined power output of 373 hp and 700 Nm of torque.

An eight-speed automatic gearbox sends the power to all four wheels, resulting in a 0-100 km/h time of just 6.0 seconds while the v-max is officially quoted at 225 km/h. On pure electric power alone, the Q7 possesses an operational range of 56 km. Fuel consumption is rated at 58.8 km/l, resulting in a range of 1,410 km.

Another world’s first comes in the form of a thermal management system with an integrated heat pump. Essentially, the system transmits the heat energy generated by the electrical drive components and employs it to heat up the interior, reducing strain on the climate control interface.

Charging the Q7 e-tron with 7.2 kW of power is now possible thanks to a new two-phase charging technology. Using a “high-performance industrial socket”, one only needs to spend two and a half hours to fully charge up the car. The cabin architecture echoes its siblings with the exception of a few add-ons.

One of them includes a new electromechanical power steering that’s supposedly tuned for the Q7 e-tron. Elsewhere, Audi’s latest MMI system with navigation plus gets hooked up to the hybrid management system. By employing real-time traffic information, the car is able to determine the best driving mode (out of four available modes) for optimal fuel efficiency.

Also standard on the Audi Q7 e-tron 3.0 TDI quattro is the Audi virtual cockpit which is a fully-digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster. Operating on the Tegra 30 graphics chip from NVIDIA, the layout is able to display a multitude of information from current speed to a power meter readout.

Additional onboard entertainment comes in the form of the Audi tablet, which doubles as a form of rear-seat entertainment. The Q7’s sound system features 3D sound technology both Bose and Bang & Olufsen while an Audi phone box enables wireless charging for mobile phones.

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/03/03/audi-q7-e-tron-3-0-tdi-quattro-geneva/feed/1GALLERY: 2016 Audi R8 5.2 FSI V10 and R8 e-tronhttp://paultan.org/2015/03/03/gallery-2016-audi-r8-5-2-fsi-v10-and-r8-e-tron/
http://paultan.org/2015/03/03/gallery-2016-audi-r8-5-2-fsi-v10-and-r8-e-tron/#commentsTue, 03 Mar 2015 04:00:06 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=315106Geneva has seen the wraps officially coming off the 2016 Audi R8 in both petrol and e-tron form – the 5.2 litre FSI V10 was detailed last week when it was revealed, and now it’s […]

A quick recap of the 5.2 FSI R8’s numbers. The car will only be available in V10 form, and in two variants – the standard car has 540 hp and 540 Nm on tap and performance figures include a 0-100 km/h time of 3.5 seconds and a 323 km/h top speed.

The 1,555 kg R8 V10 plus ups things to 610 hp and 560 Nm, and the century sprint is brought down to 3.2 seconds, while top speed increases to 330 km/h. Transmission choice is a sole seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission with paddle-shift, shift-by-wire operation, three shift modes and launch control.

Ten standard exterior colours are available for the R8, and 11 for the R8 V10 plus, which adds a special matte Camouflage Green finish to the palette. Customers will be able to pick from five colours for the interior.

As for the R8 e-tron, the second-gen offering improves on the operating range offered by the previous outing, more than doubling the travelling ability of the electric sports car – the new e-tron can travel 450 km compared to the 215 km the previous-gen offered.

The range improvement has been accomplished through a series of modifications to the car as well as an increase in battery capacity to 92 kWh from the 49 kWh previously, as well as a hike in energy density from the 84 Wh/kg in the old car to 154 Wh/kg.

The large T-shaped lithium-ion battery – produced in-house by Audi – is structurally integrated into the centre tunnel and behind the occupant cell, and its size remains unchanged.

Elsewhere, intelligent energy management and an electromechanical brake system enable high energy recuperation rates. A Combined Charging System (CCS), which allows charging with direct and alternating current, allows the battery to be fully charged in less than two hours.

The battery powers two electric motors – each produce 228 hp and 460 Nm, so combined power output is now 456 hp and maximum torque is 920 Nm compared to the first generation’s 375 hp and 820 Nm, and the new R8 e-tron manages the 0-100 km/h run in 3.9 seconds (4.2 seconds on old car), with top speed electronically-restricted to 210 km/h or 250 km/h (200 km/h, old car).

The new R8 e-tron features additional use of carbon-fibre over the standard R8 to lighten things – the vehicle’s supporting structure is enhanced with a CFRP rear-section module comprising the luggage compartment. The automaker adds that the walls of the CFRP luggage compartment well are corrugated to aid in energy dissipation and absorption in the event of a rear-end collision.

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/03/03/gallery-2016-audi-r8-5-2-fsi-v10-and-r8-e-tron/feed/0Audi A7 Sportback facelift coming to Malaysia soonhttp://paultan.org/2015/03/02/audi-a7-sportback-facelift-coming-to-malaysia-soon/
http://paultan.org/2015/03/02/audi-a7-sportback-facelift-coming-to-malaysia-soon/#commentsMon, 02 Mar 2015 09:30:23 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=314931The Audi A7 Sportback facelift will arrive in Malaysia soon, as revealed by the brand’s local website. The updated hatchback-cum-coupe was unveiled in May last year, while the current pre-facelift model has been on sale […]

As is the norm for Audis, the A7’s mid-life update mainly refreshes the car’s exterior looks. A six-point grille, slimmer headlamps (LEDs as standard) and taillamps with new graphics round off the facelift, along with minor trim changes on the inside.

Audi’s Malaysian website also mentions an uprated 3.0 litre V6 TFSI engine – now with 333 hp, up from the current car’s 310 hp. Peak torque stays as before, at 440 Nm. The new version will get to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds through its quattro all-wheel drive system.

We’ll have a more detailed update on the car’s specifications once they are available.

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/03/02/audi-a7-sportback-facelift-coming-to-malaysia-soon/feed/8Audi R8 e-tron – electric sports car with 450 km range?http://paultan.org/2015/02/28/audi-r8-e-tron-electric-sports-car-with-450-km-range/
http://paultan.org/2015/02/28/audi-r8-e-tron-electric-sports-car-with-450-km-range/#commentsSat, 28 Feb 2015 14:49:55 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=314725First generation Audi R8 e-tron shown The Audi R8 e-tron will continue with the second generation R8, set to be available for order this year upon customer request for those who are into zero emissions […]

The Audi R8 e-tron will continue with the second generation R8, set to be available for order this year upon customer request for those who are into zero emissions motoring.

Audi has made a number of improvements with the new R8 e-tron, most notably a significantly longer range of 450 km compared to the previous 215 km number thanks to an energy density that has been increased from 84 Wh/kg to 154 Wh/kg. The large T-shaped battery is structurally integrated into the center tunnel and behind the occupant cell.

Audi produces the lithium ion high-voltage battery itself. The R8 has a Combined Charging System (CCS) on board, which allows charging with direct and alternating current. Using this system, it is possible to fully charge the battery in significantly less than two hours.

The battery powers two electric motors – each produce 228 hp and 460 Nm for a combined 456 hp and 920 Nm, taking it to the 100 km/h mark on the speedo in just 3.9 seconds.

This is it, boys and girls, the new 2016 Audi R8. Teased and leaked multiple times, we’ve finally got the lowdown on Ingolstadt’s latest poster boy supercar ahead of its world premiere at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show next week. It will go on sale starting this summer, with prices ranging from €165,000 (RM673,700) for the standard model to €187,400 (RM765,200) for the top-of-the-range plus.

Looks very…familiar, doesn’t it? Measuring 4.42 metres long, 1.24 metres high and and 1.94 metres wide, with a 2.65 metre wheelbase, the dimensions of the new R8 has changed only slightly from the old car.

The styling cues are evolutionary rather than revolutionary, too. The six-point single-frame front grille from the previous facelifted R8 stays on but is larger and flatter, flanked by trapezoidal headlights (LED units as standard, laser-powered ones optional) and large air intakes. The characteristic “side blades” have also been split into two to make the car seem longer and more dynamic.

The rear is more angular than before, with trapezoidal exhaust outlets replacing the round pipes on the facelifted original. The standard car gets an extendable rear spoiler, with the plus model getting a fixed carbon fibre unit. As standard, the new R8 is fitted with 19-inch wheels; 20-inch rollers are available as an option for the first time.

The cockpit-like driver-oriented interior will be familiar to those who own the current R8, but there’s a new configurable 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit display in the instrument binnacle (taken from the new TT) that replaces the old centrally-mounted MMI display. The standard sports seats have also been redesigned, and there are new optional bucket seats that come as standard on the plus.

Both the start button and the rotary dial to select the four modes (comfort, auto, dynamic and individual) on the Audi drive select system are mounted on the steering wheel. In addition, there’s also an optional Performance steering (again standard on the plus) with a performance mode that has specific driving programs for dry, wet and snowy conditions.

Gone is the base 4.2 litre V8 on the previous car – from now on the R8 will be V10-only, the same 5.2 litre direct-injected unit as before but with added indirect injection for improved performance and fuel economy. Two variants will be available – the standard car produces 540 hp and 540 Nm, gets from 0-100 km/h in 3.5 seconds, has a top speed of 323 km/h, uses 11.8 litres of fuel per 100 km and emits 275 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre.

Moving up, the uprated plus model punches out 610 hp and 560 Nm, propelling it from zero to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds and 200 km/h in 9.9 seconds before reaching a top speed of 330 km/h. Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures are 12.4 litres per 100 km and 285 grams per kilometre respectively.

As such, the new R8 uses up to 10% less fuel than before, thanks to cylinder on demand (COD) that shuts off one of the two cylinder banks at low loads, a start-stop system and a coasting function for the standard-fit S tronic transmission. Yes, that’s right – sorry guys, there’s no more six-speed open-gate manual gearbox for you to enjoy; the only way the car rows its gears is through a paddle-shift seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, with shift-by-wire, three shift modes and launch control.

As before, quattro permanent all-wheel drive is fitted on all models, with a hydraulic multi-plate clutch replacing the viscous clutch on the previous R8. The system can now send up to 100% of torque to either the front or rear axle, and a rear mechanical limited-slip differential ensures maximum traction.

Under the skin is a new multi-material Audi Space Frame (ASF) that uses copious amounts of aluminium and carbon fibre. Despite torsional rigidity being 40% higher than before, the bodyshell is 15% lighter, resulting in a dry weight of just 1,454 kg, 50 kg less than the old car.

Aluminium double wishbone suspension is fitted all-round, while electromechanical power steering replaces the previous hydraulic unit; Audi magnetic ride dampers and variable-ratio dynamic steering are available as an option. As on the RS6, the R8 features lightweight wavy steel brake discs as standard, with carbon ceramic discs being optional (and fitted as standard on the plus).

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/02/26/2016-audi-r8-revealed-v10-and-s-tronic-only-610-hp/feed/32Second-gen Audi R8 – is this the first official image?http://paultan.org/2015/02/26/second-gen-audi-r8-official-image-leaked/
http://paultan.org/2015/02/26/second-gen-audi-r8-official-image-leaked/#commentsThu, 26 Feb 2015 05:45:18 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=314279The first official image of the next-generation Audi R8 has apparently been leaked online prior to its public unveiling at the upcoming 2015 Geneva Motor Show in March. The image, first seen on Motor Pasion, […]

The first official image of the next-generation Audi R8 has apparently been leaked online prior to its public unveiling at the upcoming 2015 Geneva Motor Show in March. The image, first seen on Motor Pasion, could not be verified but comparisons between it and earlier spyshots indicate a rather close resemblance.

Looking back at the official teaser image released earlier on by Audi, one can see that the layout of the air intake as well as the head lamp assembly does indeed match up quite closely. Furthermore, the design of the Singleframe grille up front does appear to tally up with a shot of the camo’ed mule featured in a video released by Audi, which shows the second-generation Audi R8 speeding around the Ascari circuit.

As reported, the 2016 Audi R8 is expected to debut with a naturally-aspirated 5.2 litre V10 engine pumping out at least 540 hp in its mildest state of tune. A ‘Plus’ variant is expected to top the range with the same engine, albeit in a higher state of tune – around 610 hp has been touted.

Another novelty on the new R8 would arrive in the form of its (optional) laser head lamps. By employing high-intensity laser diodes, the system is able to generate a lot more light energy and therefore, be able to project a beam that is nearly twice the range when compared to conventional LED head lamps.

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/02/26/second-gen-audi-r8-official-image-leaked/feed/10Audi prologue Avant revealed; plug-in hybrid systemhttp://paultan.org/2015/02/25/audi-prologue-avant-revealed-plug-in-hybrid/
http://paultan.org/2015/02/25/audi-prologue-avant-revealed-plug-in-hybrid/#commentsWed, 25 Feb 2015 09:30:13 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=314037Remember the striking Audi prologue concept that made its debut late last year? If you do, you should be aware of its Avant sibling – creatively dubbed the Audi prologue Avant concept – which is […]

Aesthetically, it’s pretty much the same affair as it is on the prologue concept – with a massive Singleframe grille out front and Matrix LED laser head lamps. In profile, the prologue Avant sports 22-inch wheels shod with 285/30 tyres. Moving on to the rear, a sloping tailgate tapers down into a pair of tail pipes, which are integrated into the rear bumper.

Under the hood is where things get interesting. The Audi prologue Avant concept features a plug-in hybrid drivetrain that is comprised of a twin-turbo’ed, 3.0 litre TDI V6 mill and an electric motor powered by a 14.1kWh lithium-ion battery. In total, the system pumps out 455 PS and 750 Nm of torque, resulting in a 0-100 km/h time of 5.1 seconds and a (limited) top speed of 250 km/h.

Like its drivetrain – which is set to feature in the upcoming Audi Q7 e-tron – the interior of the prologue Avant concept looks like it could make production with the most minimal of changes. The show car features a total of three touchscreen platforms, consisting of one main OLED display on the centre console and two additional, detachable units that double as part of the rear seat entertainment system.

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/02/25/audi-prologue-avant-revealed-plug-in-hybrid/feed/2VIDEO: Audi R8 V10 Prototype driven around Ascarihttp://paultan.org/2015/02/20/video-audi-r8-v10-prototype-driven-around-ascari/
http://paultan.org/2015/02/20/video-audi-r8-v10-prototype-driven-around-ascari/#commentsFri, 20 Feb 2015 04:04:04 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=312908Audi hasn’t quite revealed the second generation R8 in full yet, but they’ve gone and released a video of the new supercar in action on the Ascari track driven by Audi test driver Frank Stippler. […]

Audi hasn’t quite revealed the second generation R8 in full yet, but they’ve gone and released a video of the new supercar in action on the Ascari track driven by Audi test driver Frank Stippler. The variant he’s driving in the video above is the V10 Plus, which is the top of the range 610 hp version.

The other variant available from launch is the ‘vanilla’ V10, which at 540 horsepower is no slouch either. There’s no smaller engine from launch, but we hear the possibility of a V8 and an e-tron version in the future. Did we mention the V10 is still normally aspirated? Very interesting in a world where even Ferrari’s 488 GTB has gone turbo, not to mention the rest of the Audi passenger car range.

The R8’s quattro system is now able to drive 100% of available power to either the front or rear axles. The steering system is now EPS instead of hydraulic, which might raise some eyebrows.

It seems the large luxury coupe is back in vogue – Mercedes already has the gorgeous S-Class Coupe, and both Audi and BMW are eyeing a slice of the pie too, the latter demonstrated by its Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupe concept. But while the Prologue coupe seemed to be the crystal ball towards an S-Class Coupe rival, this Audi Prologue Avant concept appears to foreshadow a competitor to the CLS-Class Shooting Brake.

As on the Prologue coupe, many of the styling cues you see here will find their way to future Audis, starting with the A6, A7 and A8. A super-wide front grille is flanked by slim Matrix LED headlamps and aggressively-styled intakes (even more garang than the coupe’s!).

Adding to that dynamic silhouette are massive five-spoke alloys, a low roofline and a shoulder line that’s pretty nearly flat. The long rear overhang is set off by subtle spoilers on the roof and rear window line, while bridged LED tail lamps and huge tailpipe outlets round up the rear.

Audi has seen fit to tease the interior, too – pretty much the same as the Prologue coupe’s, with that strong, minimalist T-shaped layout flattering the car’s width. OLED touch-screens dominate, with the Audi virtual cockpit facing the driver.

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/02/18/audi-prologue-avant-concept-teased/feed/1Second-gen Audi R8 will shine with laser headlightshttp://paultan.org/2015/02/16/new-audi-r8-laser-headlamps/
http://paultan.org/2015/02/16/new-audi-r8-laser-headlamps/#commentsMon, 16 Feb 2015 08:40:56 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=312073The new Audi R8 is all set for its Geneva Motor Show debut, with a recent leaked shot showing us a glimpse of the second-gen car. Now, Audi has released an official teaser image of […]

The new Audi R8 is all set for its Geneva Motor Show debut, with a recent leaked shot showing us a glimpse of the second-gen car. Now, Audi has released an official teaser image of the new R8, showing off the sports car’s headlamps and part of the lower bumper.

Audi wants to draw attention to the headlights, which are LEDs that can be supplemented by an optional laser high-beam lighting module. The special appeal of laser lighting is that it uses high-intensity laser diodes, which generate a lot of light energy from a very small component. Compared to LED high beams, laser high beams provide nearly twice the lighting range.

Each headlight contains one laser module that operates with four high-intensity laser diodes. This module bundles the four intense blue-light laser beams. Then a phosphor converter transforms the blue light into pure white light. An unique characteristic of the laser headlights is their blue light signature.

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/02/16/new-audi-r8-laser-headlamps/feed/9Audi A1, A1 Sportback dropped from Euromobil lineuphttp://paultan.org/2015/02/16/audi-a1-a1-sportback-dropped-euromobil-lineup/
http://paultan.org/2015/02/16/audi-a1-a1-sportback-dropped-euromobil-lineup/#commentsMon, 16 Feb 2015 04:25:19 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=311933The Audi A1 and A1 Sportback have been dropped from the local Audi model line-up – a check earlier with the Audi Malaysia website showed that both were no longer listed. A call to Euromobil […]

The Audi A1 and A1 Sportback have been dropped from the local Audi model line-up – a check earlier with the Audi Malaysia website showed that both were no longer listed. A call to Euromobil confirmed that sales of the A1 models have indeed been discontinued, though this is only for the moment, the company said. Tip of the hat to reader Ron Nard for the steer in that particular direction.

The A1 hatch was introduced in Malaysia in June 2011, the three-door hatchback making its local debut in 1.4 TFSI form, priced at RM179,900 without insurance. The five-door version of the type, the A1 Sportback, arrived in March 2013, and was also priced at RM179,900 at point of introduction.

Both A1 models had identical powertrains, equipped with a turbocharged 1.4 TFSI engine offering 122 hp at 5,000 rpm and 200 Nm of torque from 1,500 to 4,000 rpm. In both cases, the mill was paired with a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission.

The cars could well return to the lineup soon enough in their facelifted forms – the updated A1 and A1 Sportback were unveiled in November last year, with revised front bumper, sharper-looking headlamps, new graphics for the tail lamps and a more angular front grille part of the external rework.

Short of actually breaking into a test facility and grabbing our own shots, the renderings you see here are probably the closest anyone can get to the finished article prior to its official unveiling – likely to be the 2015 Frankfurt motor show in September.

Out front, the Audi A4 B9 sports a bold snout, with the single-frame grille appearing to meld with the edges of the head lamps, aping the Audi prologue concept. Another notable design cue is that of the car’s shoulder lines that stem from the edge of the head light and run all the way back, ending just before the tail lamps.

While the styling may reflect an evolutionary background as opposed to a revolutionary one, the B9 is set to be vastly different from its predecessor under the skin. For starters, it will ride on a modified MLB platform from the Volkswagen Group – dubbed the MLB evo and underpins the new Audi Q7.

The platform employs a combination of ultra high-strength steel, aluminium and composites, potentially allowing the A4 to undercut its rivals by a fair margin in terms of weight. Powertrain options will likely comprise of a range consisting of various turbo’ed, four-cylinder petrol and diesel mills.

Transmission choices will likely include a six-speed manual gearbox along with seven-speed dual-clutch options while front-wheel drive is set to feature on base models – naturally, higher-end variants will get the trademark quattro all-wheel drive system.

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/02/12/audi-a4-b9-rendered/feed/142016 Audi R8 – next-gen leaked ahead of Geneva?http://paultan.org/2015/02/11/2016-audi-r8-next-gen-leaked-ahead-geneva/
http://paultan.org/2015/02/11/2016-audi-r8-next-gen-leaked-ahead-geneva/#commentsWed, 11 Feb 2015 07:21:30 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=310820Ahead of its scheduled Geneva debut next month, an image purportedly that of the 2016 Audi R8 has surfaced online. Plenty of debate as to whether the photo is actually that of the next-gen R8 […]

Ahead of its scheduled Geneva debut next month, an image purportedly that of the 2016 Audi R8 has surfaced online. Plenty of debate as to whether the photo is actually that of the next-gen R8 or a bodykitted example being fitted out with some new clothes.

Some of the visual cues – in comparison to spyshots of the car undergoing trials on the Nurburgring – suggest that this could be very well a view of the real deal. The largish gap between the bumper and body panel (and missing front wheels) aside, the bonnet line and shape of the headlights match up to that of the spied car, so if this is a replication, it’s aiming to be a dead ringer.

We’ll know soon enough in a few weeks, when the new R8 makes its debut at the Swiss show. Like its predecessor, the upcoming car will utilise a Lamborghini platform, here based on the one seen on the Huracan LP 610-4. It’ll be a lighter proposition as well.

In terms of powertrains, word is that the car will make its debut via the V10 route, with the Lambo-derived 5.2 litre expected to get a power hike. A e-tron plug-in variant is also on the cards for the second-gen R8, but it’ll be a while before that one enters the market.

In the meantime, does the new rakish look (if it is the actual car) work for you? Fetchingly sharp, or trying too hard? Tell us what you think in the comments section below.

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/02/11/2016-audi-r8-next-gen-leaked-ahead-geneva/feed/8SPYSHOTS: Audi A4 B9 shows its head and tail lampshttp://paultan.org/2015/02/09/audi-a4-b9-head-tail-lamps-spyshots/
http://paultan.org/2015/02/09/audi-a4-b9-head-tail-lamps-spyshots/#commentsMon, 09 Feb 2015 10:17:37 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=310330Our Euro spies have photographed the upcoming B9 Audi A4 sedan again – this time, its head and tail lamps are un-camouflaged. The LED DRLs are C-shaped and so are the tail lamp signatures, with […]

Our Euro spies have photographed the upcoming B9 Audi A4 sedan again – this time, its head and tail lamps are un-camouflaged. The LED DRLs are C-shaped and so are the tail lamp signatures, with both housings angular and slim.

Expected to come out in the open this summer, the new Audi A4 will be built on an upgraded version of the MLB platform, nicknamed MLB evo. The second-gen Q7 is the first to use this platform – it’s set to trickle down to most Audi models from the A4 up.

The MLB evo platform is said to pack more ultra high-strength steel, aluminium and composites, which may help the A4 be around 100 kg lighter than before. It’s also been designed to accommodate alternative drivetrains – plug-in hybrid, natural gas and even electric versions, perhaps?

There should be front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive quattro versions, six-speed manual and seven-speed twin-clutch gearboxes, as well as Avant and ‘ruggedised’ allroad estate bodystyles further down the line.

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/02/09/audi-a4-b9-head-tail-lamps-spyshots/feed/10Audi to call new SUV Q1 since Fiat hasn’t allowed Q2http://paultan.org/2015/01/29/audi-q1-fiat-q2/
http://paultan.org/2015/01/29/audi-q1-fiat-q2/#commentsThu, 29 Jan 2015 02:34:39 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=307789According to a report by Automotive News Europe, Audi has settled on calling its upcoming compact SUV the Q1 after failing to receive permission from Fiat Chrysler to use Q2, a name owned by Alfa Romeo. […]

According to a report by Automotive News Europe, Audi has settled on calling its upcoming compact SUV the Q1 after failing to receive permission from Fiat Chrysler to use Q2, a name owned by Alfa Romeo.

Audi sources told the publication that the German carmaker has asked Fiat if it could use the Q2 name, but received no response. Audi isn’t keen on using Q1 because the name is too close to the A1, which is based on the Volkswagen Polo and therefore smaller than the Q1 would be.

A “significant” amount of money would have been paid to Fiat Chrysler for the name, a source said, but Fiat Chrysler has told ANE that it is not aware of any approach from Audi over vehicle names.

Rendering maestro Theophilus Chin has provided us with his interpretation of the Audi Q6 – a possible competitor to the BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe. Perhaps possible isn’t quite the right word as Audi honcho, Rupert Stadler, has expressed his interest in building such a model.

“We can imagine a model between the Q5 and the Q7. A coupe-like, four-wheel driven model,” he said. With sales of the BMW X6 far exceeding expectations around the world, calls are being made from Audi’s North American and Chinese divisions to introduce a competitor into the lucrative coupe-SUV market.

Should the Q6 get the official go-ahead, expect the five-seat crossover to be based on a variation of the Audi Q7‘s platform. As for its aesthetics, design cues from its bigger brother are expected to trickle down as the latest-gen Q7 features a new direction for Audi SUVs.

As for powertrain options, it is likely that the petrol and diesel mills currently in service in the Audi Q5 will be employed here as well. On the gasoline side, we could be looking at a 2.0 litre TFSI mill with 222 hp/350 Nm of torque. As for diesel options, expect a 2.0 litre TDI with 175 hp/380 Nm of torque to feature.

While it’s still a long way to go, the engineers at Audi’s RS division are said to be considering a Q6 RS model, which will most likely be powered by the 4.0 litre, biturbo TFSI V8 engine found in the Audi RS6 Avant. In that state of tune, the mill puts out 560 hp and 700 Nm of torque.

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/01/28/audi-q6-rendered/feed/10SPYSHOTS: New Audi A4 B9 having fun in the snowhttp://paultan.org/2015/01/22/spyshots-new-audi-a4-b9-fun-snow/
http://paultan.org/2015/01/22/spyshots-new-audi-a4-b9-fun-snow/#commentsThu, 22 Jan 2015 08:20:31 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=305936This is only the second time our spy photographers have seen the next generation Audi A4 with a heavily camo-ed production body – the first was back in October last year where we saw it […]

This is only the second time our spy photographers have seen the next generation Audi A4 with a heavily camo-ed production body – the first was back in October last year where we saw it being driven on roads. Before that, only prototypes wearing the old B8’s body panels were seen.

Today we can show you the next generation A4 testing in the snow, and thank to the gloomy weather the prototype has its headlamps and taillamps on so we can have an idea how the lense graphics will look like. The snow is also a good way to try out the brand’s trademark quattro all-wheel drive.

The camo is still very thick at this moment but we can see styling cues from the latest generation of Audis like the new TT and Q7 in this model. All we can say is that it looks like low-slung sedan bodies carry the new Audi grille much better than big SUVs.

The C-Class has already been updated with an all-new model, while their other rival from Munich is set for a facelift soon. The new A4 can’t come soon enough, perhaps set to make an appearance at the Frankfurt show later this year. Underneath the metal will be the same “MLB evo” platform used by the new Audi Q7, which will reportedly help the A4 shed some weight for better handling, economy and performance.

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/01/22/spyshots-new-audi-a4-b9-fun-snow/feed/14Range-topping Audi Q8 SUV reportedly in the workshttp://paultan.org/2015/01/21/audi-q8-reportedly-in-the-works/
http://paultan.org/2015/01/21/audi-q8-reportedly-in-the-works/#commentsWed, 21 Jan 2015 07:29:35 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=305516Most people would have assumed that the Audi Q7 is more than enough to give the Mercedes-Benz GL a bloody nose. Not Audi, though. According to a report by Automotive News Europe, citing Bloomberg, the […]

Most people would have assumed that the Audi Q7 is more than enough to give the Mercedes-Benz GL a bloody nose. Not Audi, though. According to a report by Automotive News Europe, citing Bloomberg, the German firm is planning to introduce a range-topping Audi Q8 to really trouble the GL.

Slated to go on sale by the end of 2020, the Audi Q8 will be a vital component in ramping up sales figures, especially in markets that favour full-size SUVs such as China, North America and several Gulf states. Speaking at the recent Detroit motor show, Audi CEO, Rupert Stadler commented that the Q8 “would strengthen the brand. I’m convinced we need the car by 2020.”

Technical specifications on the car is sketchy at best but Audi is “working heavily on this project,” as stated by Stadler. Should that be the case, we can expect the Audi Q8 to share most of its hardware with its upcoming cousin from the Volkswagen stable, the Bentley Bentayga.

Though the two could be related in terms of drivetrain options, the Bentley would likely be priced higher than its four-ringed counterpart while boasting a more opulent interior. Its main rivals, apart from the aforementioned GL, would arrive in the form of the BMW X7 and the Jaguar F-Pace.

Another dark horse set to rain on Audi’s parade is the Maserati Levante SUV that is set to make its debut in September at the 2015 Frankfurt motor show. Despite the impending onslaught from rival manufacturers, Audi is convinced that the Q8 will do well, particularly in the American market.

Although it trails Mercedes-Benz and BMW in terms of sales in America, Stadler is adamant that the Q8 will turn things around as the firm outsold its rivals in other major markets. “We did it in China, we did in Europe. Why shouldn’t it happen in the U.S. at some point?” he added.

The Audi Q8 will be part of the automaker’s long-term plan to invest up to €24 billion in the next few years. Said plan will see Audi introduce up to 60 models by the end of the decade, including a model at the opposite end of the SUV range – the Audi Q1.

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/01/21/audi-q8-reportedly-in-the-works/feed/7VIDEO: Audi teases smartwatch-enabled self-parking system, wireless charging technology at CES 2015http://paultan.org/2015/01/07/audi-teaser-video-2015-ces/
http://paultan.org/2015/01/07/audi-teaser-video-2015-ces/#commentsWed, 07 Jan 2015 08:30:16 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=300699Not one to get left behind by Mercedes-Benz and BMW, Audi is set to unveil two (amongst many more) technological exhibits at the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. In a stroke of […]

Not one to get left behind by Mercedes-Benz and BMW, Audi is set to unveil two (amongst many more) technological exhibits at the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. In a stroke of creative brilliance, Audi has managed to effectively tease both platforms in a single video with some help from man’s best friend.

Without giving away the whole video, it revolves around the age-old “friendly” rivalry between two neighbours as they attempt to outdo one another with some help from both their dogs. Long story short, the killer blow is dealt when one of them employs a combination of an Audi A3 e-tron, his dog and his smartwatch.

Don’t follow? Fret not, have a look at the video and stay tuned for Audi’s unveiling of said technology.

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/01/07/audi-teaser-video-2015-ces/feed/1Audi to invest €24 billion to beat BMW, Mercedes-Benz; to feature 60 models by 2020 – reporthttp://paultan.org/2015/01/02/audi-invest-24-billion-euros/
http://paultan.org/2015/01/02/audi-invest-24-billion-euros/#commentsFri, 02 Jan 2015 07:30:46 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=299605In its ever-intensifying bid to beat BMW and Mercedes-Benz, Audi will invest a total of €24 billion (RM102 billion) over the next five years – a chunk of which will be directed to the development […]

In its ever-intensifying bid to beat BMW and Mercedes-Benz, Audi will invest a total of €24 billion (RM102 billion) over the next five years – a chunk of which will be directed to the development “of electric mobility, connectivity and lightweight construction,” as Bloomberg understands.

About €16.8 billion (RM71 billion) or 70% of the total is said to be channeled into expanding Audi’s range of models in its portfolio. The company aims to have at least 60 models by 2020, an increase that will see the German marque develop and introduce a new model to fill every possible niche.

The ensemble of new models responsible for Audi’s onslaught will be comprised of a flagship sedan based on the Audi prologue concept as well as junior crossover, rumoured to be labelled as the Q1, that is expected to see the light of day in 2016.

Although Audi is second only to BMW in terms of global sales (a gap of 42,600 units in 2014), it still trails both BMW and Mercedes-Benz when it comes to performance in the North American arena. As a result, Audi is pinning its hopes on the upcoming Q7 e-tron to steal sales from the Tesla Model X SUV.

Two new assembly plants are also in the works as part of Audi’s aggressive expansion plans. The first is a facility in Mexico – due for completion in 2016 – which will build the Audi Q5 for the North American market. Following that, Audi’s new plant in Brazil is set to assemble the A3 and S3 starting next year.

The aforementioned injection of funds is part of Volkswagen’s main plan to surpass Toyota in global car sales. Under its parent company, Audi will invest a total of €4.8 billion (RM20 billion) annually on the development of new vehicles and technology as well as increasing production capacity on existing models.

]]>http://paultan.org/2015/01/02/audi-invest-24-billion-euros/feed/49One-off Audi RS6 Avant revealed by Audi Exclusivehttp://paultan.org/2014/12/31/one-off-audi-rs6-avant/
http://paultan.org/2014/12/31/one-off-audi-rs6-avant/#commentsWed, 31 Dec 2014 02:10:27 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=299166The Audi RS6 Avant is a relatively docile-looking thing, right? After all, it is just a wagon with enough space to fit half of IKEA inside – the fact that it beats most supercars from […]

The Audi RS6 Avant is a relatively docile-looking thing, right? After all, it is just a wagon with enough space to fit half of IKEA inside – the fact that it beats most supercars from rest to 100 km/h (3.9 seconds) doesn’t matter when one can lug that bookshelf AND desk home in one trip.

If you happen to think so, Audi Exclusive has unveiled a one-off RS6 Avant that might appeal to that naughtier side of you. Arriving with a matte grey scheme, replete with carbon-fibre accents and black alloy wheels, this RS6 Avant looks so sinister even the family dog needs coaxing to get in.

Technical specifications remain the same, unfortunately. A twin-turbo, 4.0 litre V8 mill produces 560 hp and 700 Nm of torque – all that force going through an eight-speed tiptronic transmission to all four corners via the quattro all-wheel drive system. Top speed remains at 305 km/h.

Additional exterior enhancements are present in the form of carbon side mirrors and a rear diffuser trimmed in the same material. On the inside, the cabin is trimmed with black leather along with a smattering of carbon-fibre with contrasting yellow stitching lending some flair to an otherwise business-oriented interior layout.

]]>http://paultan.org/2014/12/31/one-off-audi-rs6-avant/feed/5VIDEO: Audi Q7’s portable rear-seat tablets in actionhttp://paultan.org/2014/12/29/video-audi-q7-portable-rear-seat-tablets/
http://paultan.org/2014/12/29/video-audi-q7-portable-rear-seat-tablets/#commentsMon, 29 Dec 2014 08:31:04 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=298939Audi has released a new video to showcase the features of its new Q7’s rear-seat entertainment system. You can spec up to two 10.1-inch Audi tablets behind the front seats. Each one is an Android-based […]

Audi has released a new video to showcase the features of its new Q7’s rear-seat entertainment system.

You can spec up to two 10.1-inch Audi tablets behind the front seats. Each one is an Android-based device powered by Nvidia Tegra 4, and directly hooks up to the car’s navigation plus system via Wi-Fi to allow rear-seat access to radio, media (on-board or online, through the in-car LTE connection), navigation and car functions.

Audio, of course, will be piped through the car’s speakers – in “full 3D” too, if matched to the optional Bang & Olufsen or Bose sound systems. Beyond that, there’s Google Play Store support to download your favourite apps.

Portability is another unique feature. You can remove the Audi tablet from its mount and use it like a normal touchscreen device outside your car. It features a full HD camera and 32GB of internal storage, as well as Bluetooth and NFC support.

Audi also says that the tablet has been engineered for automotive use, so it’s temperature-resistant and is safe in an event of a crash, which is lacking in conventional end user tablets and/or aftermarket mounts.

So while the second-generation Audi Q7 may look all that exciting from the outside, its seven-seat interior is a lot more interesting. Are you warming up to this massive beast yet?

]]>http://paultan.org/2014/12/29/video-audi-q7-portable-rear-seat-tablets/feed/6Audi Q7 redefines aural pleasure with 3D audio techhttp://paultan.org/2014/12/19/audi-q7-redefines-aural-pleasure-3d-audio-tech/
http://paultan.org/2014/12/19/audi-q7-redefines-aural-pleasure-3d-audio-tech/#commentsFri, 19 Dec 2014 07:44:57 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=297050The second-generation Audi Q7 is definitely not a car one would refer to as lacking in technology. To further redefine the genre, the new Q7 will debut what Audi calls a ‘3D’ sound system that […]

The second-generation Audi Q7 is definitely not a car one would refer to as lacking in technology. To further redefine the genre, the new Q7 will debut what Audi calls a ‘3D’ sound system that will allow the listener to experience spatial height. Yours truly isn’t sure what it means, but it sounds epic.

Available on both the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System and Bose Surround Sound options for the vehicle, the system is made possible via an algorithm that “calculates the control signals for each speaker swiftly and precisely.” Initially, the system dissects the data from the music source into spatial constituents.

Said algorithm then calculates and constructs a “mathematical model” of any recording studio, effectively turning the cabin into an almost exact replica of where the source music was recorded. As a result, the audio signal – be it mono, stereo or 5.1 surround sound – and format of the source music is rendered irrelevant.

The data is then processed to match the sound pattern in the cabin as close as possible to the original recording studio. The Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System consists of a total of 23 speakers, together with a re-engineered subwoofer and a 1,920 watt amplifier.

Four speakers installed in the A-pillars with individual channels broadcast the portions that help generate the spatial height as part of the recording studio “recreation” process. In the Bose Surround Sound system, 20 speakers, along with an additional four, allow for the presence of the aforementioned 3D sound.

]]>http://paultan.org/2014/12/19/audi-q7-redefines-aural-pleasure-3d-audio-tech/feed/8VIDEO: Audi Q7 flaunts its new interior in latest cliphttp://paultan.org/2014/12/18/video-audi-q7-interior/
http://paultan.org/2014/12/18/video-audi-q7-interior/#commentsThu, 18 Dec 2014 05:21:47 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=296943Audi Germany has released a short clip of its all-new Audi Q7, providing viewers a glimpse into some of the new tech that’s featured on the second-generation SUV. While the action shots are pretty self-explanatory, […]

Audi Germany has released a short clip of its all-new Audi Q7, providing viewers a glimpse into some of the new tech that’s featured on the second-generation SUV. While the action shots are pretty self-explanatory, the beginning of the video previews the Q7’s revamped instrument cluster.

The standard seven-inch MMI monitor on the centre console can be specced up with a fancier 8.3-inch one with the optional MMI navigation plus option. With that box ticked, the instrument cluster is replaced with a monumental 12.3-inch screen with a 1,440×540 TFT display, with graphics by Nvidia’s T30 processor.

Apart from the streamlined exterior design and refreshed interior layout, the other major change is the significant drop in weight. With the 3.0 TDI engine, the new Audi Q7 tips the scales at just 1,995 kg – impressive when compared to rivals like the Porsche Cayenne and BMW X5.

A total of five engine options will be made available, two of which will be launched at a later date, comprising of the usual petrol and diesel units together with a plug-in diesel hybrid variant dubbed the Q7 e-tron quattro. All powerplants are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

]]>http://paultan.org/2014/12/18/video-audi-q7-interior/feed/7Audi said to be seriously contemplating entry into F1http://paultan.org/2014/12/16/audi-said-seriously-contemplating-entry-f1/
http://paultan.org/2014/12/16/audi-said-seriously-contemplating-entry-f1/#commentsTue, 16 Dec 2014 08:01:22 +0000http://paultan.org/?p=296297Audi is reportedly mulling the idea of entering Formula 1, and it’s no mere passing thought by the sound of it. The BBC says that the Volkswagen Group is conducting a feasibility study on whether […]

Audi is reportedly mulling the idea of entering Formula 1, and it’s no mere passing thought by the sound of it. The BBC says that the Volkswagen Group is conducting a feasibility study on whether Audi should enter F1. The study is being conducted by Stefano Domenicali, the former Ferrari team boss who joined Audi in November.

The BBC report added that Audi would join F1 with its own team, based in Germany. Other reports say that the company’s entry into the sport – to challenge successful rival Mercedes-Benz – could happen in 2016 or 2017.

If the move turns out to be real, then it’s definitely a change of tune. Back in 2011, it was reported that Audi had very little time for Formula 1, that the series just wasn’t up its alley with regards to relevance.

At the time, Audi’s motorsport boss Wolfgang Ullrich said that the automaker felt that something like Le Mans was a more pertinent arena for manufacturers to obtain all the necessary. “There’s a very good reason why we are not in F1. There’s no relevance to the road,” Ullrich was quoted then.

“Audi has always been engaged in motorsport that’s relevant to our customers such as rallying and touring cars, which brought quattro, FSI and TFSI to our road cars. This is why in 1999, we decided against F1. Instead, we decided to take on the greatest race in the world. We went for Le Mans,” Ullrich had said.

Last month, Ullrich again played down speculation about a possible F1 entry, telling reporters that “there is no decision that we are going in that direction.” For the latest round, Audi have dismissed the reports as “rumours” and have issued no further comment on the matter.

Back in 2012, Volkswagen was also reported to be considering joining F1, with the first step for VW in the premier four-wheel racing series being as an engine supplier.